CFL Logo (Photo by CFL)
The Canadian Football League (CFL) announced on Monday that the league is making changes to the on-field product beginning in 2026 and 2027. Some of the adjustments are modifying the rouge, shortening the field, moving the goal posts behind the end zones, and a new play clock.
“This is all about making our great game even more entertaining,” said Commissioner Johnston. “We are trading field goals for touchdowns, while improving fan experience in stadiums and at home. These changes are the most significant in decades. We are retaining the unique elements upon which our traditions stand, but innovating where change is needed to evolve our world-class game.”
For 2026, CFL teams will have their benches on opposite sides of the field, which will help eliminate cases such as players running 50 to 60 yards for substitutions.
The CFL is also introducing the 35-second play clock that will automatically begin as soon as the previous play is whistled dead. This will help eliminate the inconsistencies in timing as teams get set at their own pace. This will help keep the game flowing. Currently, the CFL uses a 20-second play clock that does not start until manually initiated by an official.
Lastly, for 2026, the rouge is being modified. Before, a missed field goal that sails out of bounds or punts and kickoffs that sail out of bounds were awarded one point. That is no more. The only time the rouge will come into play is if a punt, kickoff, or field goal settles in the endzone, and the return fails to take it out, takes a knee, or is tackled in the endzone, a single point will be awarded.
For 2027, the CFL will move the goal post location to the back of the end zone. This will allow offenses to target the middle of the end zone to create more exciting plays. It also helps with player safety, obstruction in the field of play, and offering direct sightlines to big plays for the fans and broadcasters.
With the goal post being moved back, the league will shorten the end zone from 20 yards to 15 yards. The field will also be shortened from 110 yards to 100 yards, while retaining the distinctive 65-yard width, and allowing the offenses to start closer to the opposition’s end zone. The adjustment also ensures league-wide uniformity of end zone dimensions.
“I commend the Board of Governors for its unwavering commitment to a culture of constant improvement,” added Johnston. Our governors do not take change lightly because they know how much the CFL, and the Canadian icon that is the Grey Cup, mean to generations of Canadians.
These changes are about improving something that is already great. They are rooted in data and analytics; they have been thoughtfully and carefully considered. But they are big and bold because that’s what’s necessary to make our fantastic game even more entertaining, and to win in the attention economy.”